Cerys Matthews

Cockahoop

2004-11-23

Cerys (Kare-iss) Matthews was the lead singer for the Welsh pop/rock band Catatonia which recorded four successful albums in the 90's. Matthews went through the familiar rock star routine of fame-fast livin'-substance abuse-breakdown-recovery. Searching for a new focus, she went to Nashville in 2002 and collaborated with Bucky Baxter, lap steel guitarist for Dylan and Ryan Adams. Baxter served as producer for Cockahoop, Matthews' first solo release.

Matthews' unique voice leads the way through the set. It's rather thin and frail, but, at the same time, it's very expressive, intense, and full of passion. The album contains original songs, covers, and some traditional Welsh folk songs. The marriage of pop/rock, Welsh tradition, and Nashville soul make for a highly original and outstanding piece of work.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 06/2010

    PETE BERNHARD
    Straight Line

  • reviewed 04/2012

    POOR MOON
    Illusion

  • reviewed 04/2010

    HOLLY GOLIGHTLY & THE BROKEOFFS
    Medicine County

  • reviewed 02/2008

    ALLISON MOORER
    Mockingbird

  • reviewed 04/2009

    THE GREENCARDS
    Fascination

  • reviewed 03/2010

    CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS
    Genuine Negro Jig

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.